Main Question
Can the effectiveness of a press in soccer be predicted using factors such as spatial context, pressing dynamics, game context and situational factors?
Carnegie Mellon University
Centre College
Manchester City wins back possession seconds after losing it through pressing.
Can the effectiveness of a press in soccer be predicted using factors such as spatial context, pressing dynamics, game context and situational factors?
Pressing: a defensive tactic where players apply coordinated pressure on the opponent with the ball to force mistakes, win back possession, and quickly transition to attack
Forced Turnover: when a player loses possession due to opponent pressure, resulting in the opposing team gaining control. This includes misplaced passes, interceptions, successful tackles, or losing control under pressure - all direct results of effective defensive pressure
Dataset: 520 matches in the MLS 2023 season
Three data types:
Source:
Problem: 6-meter radius doesn’t account for direction
Problem: 6-meter radius doesn’t account for direction
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